Strange Hygiene Habits Of Ancient Egyptians That Wouldn't Fly Today

The Egyptian Empire might not have had telephones, electricity, or automobiles, but boy did they have fashion sense. Men and women of all social stations prided themselves on looking fresh. Of course, their daily habits were very different from ours. From applying makeup to going to the bathroom, Egyptians followed a puzzling routine. Chances are that modern people wouldn't touch these bizarre beauty tips with a ten-foot pole.

1. Shaved heads

For both men and women in ancient Egypt, lice proved to be a major nuisance. They evicted these pests simply by shearing all their hair off! Granted, the elite did wear wigs as a status symbol.

2. Chewing herbs

Would you freak out if you saw a scribe with food stuck in his teeth? At least it might have been a sign that he had decent smelling breath. Egyptians munched on all kinds of fragrant leaves to fight halitosis.

3. Eyeshadow

Based on their heavy eye makeup, Egyptians would've loved the pop-punk trend of the 2000s. In addition to the striking visual effect, the eyeshadow and mascara helped deter the harsh rays of the Saharan sun.

4. Digging potties

Only the very rich and powerful could afford indoor toilets, and even those were a far cry from the porcelain thrones we enjoy today. Everyone else had to dig out a small pit to heed the call of nature.